A Trip to Cuba

"A Trip to Cuba" by Julia Ward Howe is a 19th-century travelogue that follows the author's voyage from the United States to Cuba, providing a window into her experiences with the locales, customs, and individuals she meets along the way. Aboard the British Mail steamer "Karnak," she recounts the hardships of travel by sea, the excitement of unfamiliar adventures, and the complexities of foreign lands. Beginning with the mix of sadness and excitement of leaving home, the narrative describes the initial seasickness among passengers and the colorful scenery as they first approach Nassau and eventually Cuba. The narrative blends humor with sharp observations, setting the scene for a journey full of discovering Cuba's natural beauty, and contemplating the social issues, including how people are treated, such as slavery. Her narrative style is characterized by her detailed and engaging prose that captures the reader's interest in her voyage.